TRIBAL GOVERNMENT NEWSLETTER
DEE-NI' NUU-WEE-YA'
LAA-NII-SRVT-NAA-TAA-NUM-NII~-MA~S (August) 2025 - Volume 32, Issue 8
Preserving Culture Film crew documents Tolowa Dee-ni' practices
The video team of Ana Rau and Corbett Jones spent more than a week in July in Smith River documenting several Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation activities and projects, primarily related to the Natural Resources Department's Ghvtlh-k’vsh shu'-srnelh-'i~ (Kelp Guardians) grant work. Additionally, they received the rare invitation to document and interview Tribal Citizens about traditional practices at private family fish camps during the running of lhvmsr (surf smelt). "Our work takes us to many places and this is one of our favorites," said Rau, who, with her partner Jones, visited the Nation a few years ago to film an episode of “Tending Nature” for PBS. "We always feel welcomed, and we appreciate everyone taking the time to share their traditions with us." See Culture, Page 2
ABOVE: Videographer Corbett Jones, right, films members of the Nation's Kelp Guardians program receive SCUBA instructions from Reef Check Foundation staff. BELOW: Family members dry lhvmsr (smelt) on beds of beach grass. Other citizens use beds of beach pebbles to dry fish.
HONORING OUR PAST • SERVING OUR TRIBAL FAMILY PROTECTING OUR CULTURE & INDEPENDENCE • CONTROLLING OUR FUTURE
Culture
The Texas-based couple, who own The Range video company, were hired by California State Polytechnic University Humboldt's Rou Dalagurr Food Sovereignty Lab to document work from the Nation's Natural Resources Department's Kelp Guardians grant. This included taking video of and conducting interviews with private Tribal Citizens and the Nation's staff involved with Marine Division projects and food sovereignty efforts. They also captured footage and information about the Nation's monthly Tribal food giveaway, community garden, tribal nursery and chis-chu (elk) hunts. "As a deliverable of our Ghvtlh-k’vsh shu'-srnelh-'i~ grant, our project partner, Cal Poly Humboldt’s Rou Dalagurr Food Sovereignty Lab, is working with The Range to film a documentary on kelp and educate viewers on kelp and its importance across ecosystems, cultures, history, and the fight against climate change," said Rosa Laucci, the
Nation's Marine Division Manager and Marine Biologist. She added, "The idea of this film is to document all of the work that we have been doing within the context of kelp restoration and research and why it's important to have this come from a tribal perspective. With this film, we’re hoping to get people invested in why kelp is important and highlight why tribes should be at the forefront of these kind of projects." During their week-long visit, the film crew were granted permission from several Tribal families to join their annual fish camps established along Dat-naa-svt Beach during a run of lhvmsr (smelt). They were able to document the various traditional practices such as making sand bread and the catching and drying of lhvmsr. Our Nation has a deep historical and cultural connection to lhvmsr, which remain an important food source and a key component of our traditional ceremonies. Stay tuned for news on the documentary's release date.
The film crew interviews Tolowa Citizens (L-R) Norene Darnell, Sheryl Steinruck, Vicky Bommelyn and Marva Sii~xuutesna Jones.
The film crew interviews Tolowa Dee-ni' Citizen Nieca Wright as she makes traditional sand bread at a fish camp at Dat-naa-svt Beach.
Local fishermen use traditional nets to catch lhvmsr in the breaking surf at Dat-naa-svt Beach as cameraman Corbett Jones (middle) films the action.
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All Tribal Council: council@tolowa.gov Chairperson, Debbie Boardman (707) 951-0966, dboardman@tolowa.gov Vice Chair, Scott D. Sullivan (707) 954-6127, scott.sullivan@tolowa.gov Secretary, Jeri Lynn Thompson (707) 951-3875, jeri.thompson@tolowa.gov Treasurer, Jaytuk Steinruck (707) 954-5971, jaytuk.steinruck@tolowa.gov Council Member, Dr. Joseph Giovannetti (707) 218-6569, joseph.giovannetti@tolowa.gov Council Member, Amanda O’Connell (707) 954-5271, amanda.oconnell@tolowa.gov Council Member, Dorothy Wait (707) 218-7346, dwait@tolowa.gov A boat heads out to sea during sunset at Sporthaven Beach at the Port of Brookings-Harbor.
DAY MIN’-NE’ Executive Director, Troy Ralstin (707) 487-9255, ext. 1220, troy.ralstin@tolowa.gov Assistant Executive Director, Thomas Metz (707) 487-9255, ext. 1229, thomas.metz@tolowa.gov Administrative Services Director, Emily Reed (707) 487-9255 , ext. 1182, emily.reed@tolowa.gov Chief Financial Officer, Jose Tercilla (707) 487-9255, ext. 1115, jose.tercilla@tolowa.gov CFW Director, Teela James (707) 487-9255, ext. 1139, teela.james@tolowa.gov Community Development Director, Tim Hoone (707) 487-9255, ext. 1230, tim.hoone@tolowa.gov Education Director, Sheryl Steinruck (707) 487-9255, ext. 1173, sheryl.steinruck@tolowa.gov Enrollment & Elections, Angel Escobar 707-487-9255, ext. 1181, angel.escobar@tolowa.gov Housing Manager, Jeri Robertson (707) 487-9255, ext. 1605, jeri.robertson@tolowa.gov Human Resources Director, Jeff Davis (707) 487-9255, ext. 1213, jeff.davis@tolowa.gov Natural Resources Director, Rachel McCain (707) 487-3233, rachel.mccain@tolowa.gov Self-Governance Officer, Darrel Aubrey 707-487-9255, ext.1159, darrel.aubrey@tolowa.gov Tribal Court Administrator, Elsie Petrie 707-487-9255, ext. 1162, elsie.petrie@tolowa.gov Tribal Employment Rights Officer, Brian Millett (707) 487-9255, ext. 1222, brian.millett@tolowa.gov Tribal Heritage Preservation Office, Cynthia Ford (707) 487-9255, ext. 1701, cynthia.ford@tolowa.gov
Grant money extends Tolowa Cultural Trail..................................................................4 Tribal Youth Employment Program...............................................................................5 Pre-enrollment applications for Head Start...................................................................6 Huné works to preserve Tolowa Language................................................................10 2025 graduation profiles.............................................................................................12 Dee-ni Day and Dee-ni' Night events.....................................................................14-15 Annual Back to School event......................................................................................16 Employment opportunities..........................................................................................19 Council Motions..........................................................................................................21 Tribal Citizen Birthdays...............................................................................................22
Laa-nii-srvt-naa-taa-num-nii~-ma~s (August) 2025 Tribal Government Newsletter published by the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation, 12801 Mouth of Smith River Road, Smith River CA 95567. Find our website at www.tolowa.gov. Articles do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Tribal Council of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation or their staff. The Tribal Council of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation reserves the right to use their discretion in the information they publish. As per the Tribal Council of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation, no article shall be published or acknowledged in the tribal newsletter that does not promote and protect the best interests of the Nation. For information, contact Public Information Officer Scott Graves at scott.graves@tolowa.gov, call 707-487-9255.
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$2 million grant will complete Tolowa trail – Article courtesy of Jessica Cejnar Andrews, Redwood Voice. Crescent City received a $2 million grant in July that officials say will extend the Tolowa Cultural Trail in Beachfront Park to Battery Point where many Tolowa were imprisoned in the 1850s. Councilors unanimously accepted the grant from the Mellon Foundation at a special meeting July 9. They also approved an agreement with T.B. Penick & Sons Inc. to install lithomosaic basket patterns at the entrance to the visitor center and as a welcome to the Tolowa Cultural Trail. T.B. Penick & Sons will also create a special lithomosaic pebble pattern at the Tolowa Cultural Trail welcome station, City Manager Eric Wier said. “That pebble mosaic is going to be one of those things that we don’t think people are going to realize what they’re seeing at first, but once they do they’re not going to forget it,” Wier said. “On the first part of this path you’ll have 2,400 pebbles. The 2,400 pebbles represent the Tolowa population pre-colonization… and then you have 121 [pebbles] as part of the 1905 census. That represents the population in that census. As you walk through you’ll be able to see that element and then read about as you’re looking at the various interpretive panels.” Efforts to incorporate indigenous history into Beachfront Park’s Proposition 68 grant-funded expansion date back to the city’s first community
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The planned Tolowa Cultural Trail will traverse Crescent City's Beach Front Park from the existing cultural center to Battery Point.
meetings on the endeavor back in 2019. City staff formed a committee consisting of representatives from the Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation, Tolowa Nation and Elk Valley Rancheria as well as the Del Norte County Historical Society in 2022. Also in 2022, the city contracted with GreenWorks Planning Consultants to design the park’s new features. The landscape architect firm, along with its subcontractor SeaReach Ltd. envisioned an interpretive trail that extends from the Cultural Center to Battery Point. The trail would include seven interpretive nodes providing the visitor with access to video of Tolowa people describing poignant moments from their history. However, though it had a
$200,000 California Coastal Conservancy Coastal Stories grant to obtain those interviews, Crescent City lacked the funding to fully realize GreenWorks’ vision, prompting the pursuit of more funding. Now, not counting the latest award from the Mellon Foundation, Crescent City has received more than $8.7 million from eight grants allowing for a “fully immersive” interpretive experience that includes public art, such as a 20-foot tall redwood tree replica, and the opportunity to hear the Tolowa language spoken. In July, Wier said the $2 million Mellon Foundation award will allow the city to complete the Tolowa Interpretive Trail’s welcome station and entry as well as add more interpretive
nodes — these would include information about tsunamis as well as a dance house replica, the city manager said. It would also allow Crescent City to make improvements to the parking lot near Battery Point Lighthouse. About $216,345 from the Mellon Foundation grant would be used to create a 10-foot lithomosaic basket at the entrance to the Tolowa Interpretive Trail as well as the pebble pattern depicting the Tolowa population precolonization versus at the 1905 census. If funding is available, Wier said, staff propose using $157,163 in Clean California grant dollars to complete a 14foot lithomosaic basket pattern at the entrance to the Cultural Center.
Youth intern program: A summer of opportunities This summer, 18 Tribal youth were busy nearly five days a week interning with the Nation's staff in various departments and divisions as part of our Summer Youth Employment Program. The program, which provides youth ages 15-18 with paid work experience and career exploration, is hosted by the Nation's Na'sr-dvtlh-nvsh Waatr'uu-nii-dvn (Tribal Employment Rights Office-TERO). Youth started the program with their first two days focused on orientation and training. Next, they took a field trip to the Smith River, where they learned about stewardship of Tribal lands. The group concluded their first week attending and observing a regular Tribal Council meeting. Next, the interns meet with representative from each participating department in 5-minute “speed dating-style” interviews, during which they learned more about each department and what might
Interns Miley Moreno and Maya Travis prepare to raft the Smith River as part of working in the Public Information Office.
Youth, ages 15-18, attend a "speed-dating style" interview activity to better match them with work experience opportunities within the Nation's various departments.
interest them. Likewise, the departments' representatives learned more about each youth to increase the chances of making a good match. For the next few weeks, the interns found themselves working in various Nation departments, divisions and projects. “The Summer Youth Employment Program has been a staple in this community for decades — many of our
dedicated staff and community members served as Summer Youth Workers themselves once upon a time, so they know the value the program can offer," said Suntayea Steinruck, Workforce Development Specialist. "It’s been both fun and an honor working with various staff and departments to expand the program as the modern workforce evolves.” Steinruck said TERO started a partnership with the Nation's Community & Family Wellness Department two summers ago that "has allowed us to expand the Summer Youth Employment Program, not only in numbers of kids we’re able to serve, but also in the approach of the program. We now offer a full wrap-around approach, one that is designed with a 'Culture Driven, Wellness Based, Trauma Informed' working model." Supplementing the internship model with educational, culture and wellness activities not
Summer Youth Employee Program interns introduce themselves to the Tribal Council in July.
only provides work experience for the youth to be successful new job seekers, but it also provides the framework to support the full individual who is entering the workforce from an Indigenous point of view," she said. TERO Officer Brian Millett said this year's internship model started last year and continues to evolve. "These youth participate in professional meetings and contribute to real-time projects, working on the front lines and genuinely contributing to the Nation's operations," Millett said. "At the same time, they learn firsthand about their culture and about how the Nation serves the Tribal Citizenship." He added, "The Summer Youth Employment Program is a full-court press community effort, and it really showcases to the youth that the Nation is invested in their future and the future of their community."
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Applications now being accepted for Head Start & Early Head Start
Please fill out the pre-enrollment application below for each child and mail it to or drop off at the Tribal Headquarters, 12840 Mouth of Smith River, Smith River, CA, 95567. Early Head Start is open to pregnant women, children ages 0-3. Head Start is open to children ages 3-5. Priority is given to lowincome families, Native American families and
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children with special needs. The September to July schedule is: 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Wrap Around Care is 2:30 to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information about the programs send an email to nicol.aubrey@tolowa.com or call 707-487-9255, ext. 1502.
Work continues on new Head Start building Work on the $3.5 million expansion of the Tolowa Deeni' Nation's Head Start facility in Smith River continues with frame work and the pouring of the concrete foundation by the Nation's construction crew. Once the project is completed, the new addition will enable the Xaa-wan'-k'wvt Early Head Start Program to provide childcare and educational services for up to 16 children ages 0-3. The grant-funded expansion project will add approximately 6,500 square feet that will include two classrooms, space for direct services, and educational and social experiences for children, parent and teachers. The Nation will hire four fulltime teachers, two full-time teacher assistants and one classroom aide. Completion of the project is tentatively set for spring of 2026. The expansion compliments the Nation's existing Head Start Program, created in 2007, which currently serves 34 children ages 3 to 5.
ABOVE: The construction crew starts erecting framework, also known as the "skeleton," of the new building. The framework will later be covered with interior and exterior walls. RIGHT and BELOW: After setting forms in the ground and building up a dirt foundation covered with rebar, construction staff use an elevated hose to pour concrete delivered onsite by Tidewater Contractors.
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Directors sought for Tribal board of development Tribal and non-Tribal citizens are encouraged to apply for positions on the Nation’s Board of Directors for Dee-ni' Development, which manages the business affairs of the Corporation. The board will have supervision, control, and direction of the Corporation, will determine its policies or changes therein within the limits of the by-laws, and will actively promote its purposes. There will be a total of five positions on the board and directors will be appointed by the Tribal Council for a three-year term, on a staggered basis. The term of directors shall not exceed three years. The board will be composed of five Directors to be appointed by the Tribal Council. At all times, no less than three directors shall be citizens of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation, of which one director shall be a current member of the Tribal Council. Candidates shall be at least 25 years of age and a U.S. citizen. Board member qualifications shall include business and industry experience, financial and/or accounting, legal, economics, and mergers and acquisitions. Individual board members should possess at least one of these core competencies. Board members are not required to possess all the stated competencies. Applications can be found at www.tolowa.gov, our the Tribal headquarters, or send an email to recording.secretary@tolowa.gov.
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PUBLIC NOTICE
Long-range transportation plan available for review The Nation's Long Range Transportation Plan 2025-26 featuring the needs, goals and objectives is now available for public comment. Citizens have until Aug. 15, 2025, to submit a comment. Tribal Citizens can submit public comments either by public comment at a Regular Council Session or via written comment. Written comments should be submitted to the Senior Planner Brigette Finigan by hard or electronic copy at 12801 Mouth of Smith River Road, Smith River, CA 95567 or via email at Brigette. finigan@tolowa.gov. Comments must be in writing and be signed by the individual submitting the comments. All written or electronic comments shall include the individual's tribal identification number. For more information contact Brigette at 707-487-9255.
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Huné strives to promote Tolowa perspectives – Reprinted by permission from News from Native California magazine. Story by Muriel Ammon. Photo by Brianne Nicole Photography. ~~~ She's the next best thing since acorn bread. Herbalist, artist, author, entrepreneur, and soon-to-behigh school senior, this all-star is expanding herbalist literature to include Indigenous perspectives, knowledge, and languages. Huné Bommelyn (Tolowa Deeni'/Karuk/Yurok/Konkow Maidu/ Yuki/Wintu) is the granddaughter of Me'-lash-ne (Loren) and Lena Bommelyn and Frank and Cheryl Tuttle, and the daughter of Pyuwa Bommelyn and Ruby Tuttle. She has two younger brothers, San-t'as and Waasayn-ni, and a younger sister named Mee-sri-ghvlh-na—each equally inspiring in their own right. Everyone has worked so that these children could speak Tolowa. So they could live good lives, become strong, love themselves, and carry out their dreams and responsibilities in the community. Many wishes are given within language transmission. The wishes for safety and survival were imbued in the English language our grandparents and greatgrandparents passed on. Now we are here our possibilities ever growing. I first met Huné on a Zoom panel for AICLS. We were asked, "As youth, what's the hardest part of learning your language?" I sat there thinking, "We could be here all day."
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Tolowa Dee-ni Citizen Huné Bommelyn, featured on the cover of Summer 2025 issue of News from Native California magazine, is writing a plant book featuring Tolowa language.
Then Huné pipes in, "Something that's hard ... well, there are no interesting books to read. Just baby books." What I see in this response, beyond Huné's skyrocketing literacy, is security. Her mind is uncluttered by "Language death" and "deficit." This is merely a roadblock, and one she is equipped to handle. It was then that I knew Huné was going to be a writer. Today, Huné's biggest challenge is consistency. "I have to make the conscious
decision to use my language," she declares. I jump to console her: "It's not going to happen every day. You have boosts and lulls. Let's talk language causation mechanisms." Then I realize, this is the feeling of personal responsibility attached to becoming a young adult. It's her turn now to decide when and how she's going to use her language. Huné approaches the world uniquely. She's a linguist for sure. A Tolowa speaker since
birth, she has recently taken up Hupa language from Julian Lang. Like Tolowa, Hupa is a part of the Athabaskan language family. Given our proximity, they sound pretty similar. I suspect each language she learns will only enhance her experience speaking Tolowa and developing her fluency. I hope that this work affords her more opportunities to develop friendships. The chance to speak "Indian language" with a best friend is another one of those Earth-shattering experiences. Speaking of bigger goals, she tells me, "(The language) is never going to not be me. I thought I was going to be a linguist, but now I know I want to study psychology. Language is a part of life. I realized you don't have to study it to speak it." This security offers her freedom. "I was raised holistically," she begins, launching into her plans to become a psychiatrist. "I want to look at the basis of Western psychology and see if that aligns with us as a people. I want my kids to be able to be healed in a non-Western way. I want to be a psychiatrist and, more importantly, the education that comes with that. And I want to be able to integrate what I've learned into how we as Native people do things." Huné's herbalism studies have influenced her interest in healing. During high school, she has been able to take one year of herbalism courses, the ten-month herbalism course
through Dandelion Herbal Center, where she also took Rosemary Gladstar's Sage Mountain course. She lights up as she tells me, "I learned so much about the nervous system. It affects so much. It is often overlooked. A lot of the time medications treat symptoms, but to get rid of the problem, you have to go to the root of the cause." Huné is cognizant of the large absence of Indigenous people and knowledge within herbalist spaces, in sharp contrast to the richness she finds coming from her own peoples' healing practices. Currently, Huné is working on a digital storytelling project called "Plants: Tell Me Your Story." Her goal is to share the story of individual plants—their properties, uses, appearances, names in Native languages, and presence in Native stories. "I'm asking, 'tell me how you want to be used.'" This abstract storytelling is rooted in her understanding of herbalism. "You ask, respect the plant, don't over harvest, let it grow for the future, take care of its environment, protect it from invasive species." She hopes to distribute both digital and physical copies of her booklets. Thanks to the Institute for Native Knowledge, Huné has been awarded a Living Cultures Grant to support her work. Huné, we wish you well. Sindiyun-te.
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Congratulations Graduates! Brandy Voegeli, daughter of Richard and April Mouser, graduated from the University of Kansas in May 2025 with her Doctor of Nursing Practice as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She also completed her boards and received her certification from the AANP as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Brandy's ancestors include Shirley Scott, Harry Scott, Kate Cook, Willie Scott, Emma John, Fred Yontockett, Lagoon John, Minnie Bob. She grew up in Crescent City. Before going to college, she began her career in healthcare as a nurse technician in a hospital float pool, gaining experience across multiple units including ICU, Med-Surg, Pediatrics, Behavioral Health, and the Emergency Department. After earning her Associate Degree in Nursing, she worked as a Neuro-Critical Care nurse. While continuing to work in the hospital, she pursued and completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. In 2020, she was accepted into the University of Kansas’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program. A few years into the program, she transitioned to a nursing role in a family practice clinic to gain handson experience in primary care and better understand outpatient management. This move aligned with her goal of becoming a well-rounded
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Brandy Voegeli
Family Nurse Practitioner with a strong foundation in both acute and primary care settings. She is a part of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, American Nursing Association, KU Alumni Association, and Sigma Theta Tau. At this time she is applying to work in either a primary care or urgent care setting. One day she hopes to have her own practice, but for now she just wants to gain experience. Her words of advice: "Stay curious, be open to growth, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Every role and experience, no matter how small it may seem, can teach you something valuable. If you’re considering advancing your education or career, trust your ability to learn and adapt. The journey can be challenging, but the growth and opportunities that come from it are well worth it."
Karlie Scott graduated from the University of Oregon's Sapsik'ʷałá Teacher Education Program, earning a master's degree in education in teaching and curriculum development with multiple elementary subjects and an ESOL (English speakers of other languages) endorsement. Karlie was honored at three commencements, spanning three days in June of 2025. It was a celebrated and special occasion as commencements were not celebrated in 2020 when she graduated from the university with a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics where she focused on Pacific Northwest languages including Tolowa Dee-ni' wee-ya'. Karlie's mom, elder Luanna Scott, called her two-time graduation from the university a "double duck," as she reflected on Karlie's educational journey. She started her education in our tribal school at Howonquet Head Start being cared for by Miss Mendy Hinshaw and went to Smith River elementary and Del Norte High School. Karlie said, "I am happy to be able to celebrate with my family and friends this time and I am looking forward to giving back to the community that shaped me." Upon witnessing her graduation, nephew Duuya was inspired to pursue higher
Karlie Scott
education at the University of Oregon. Karlie's family said "we're grateful for the opportunity education provides in the pursuit of self-determination and are reminded of the duty we have as tribal citizens to honor our heritage and give back to the community that helped shape Karlie as a Tolowa Dee-ni' person." Karlie plans to teach in the Portland area in a school district with a high native student population and plans to return home to teach in our community once tenured.
Heath A. Moon
Heath A. Moon, son of Heath Everett Moon and Nikki Rae Metcalf, graduated from Butte College and is attending California State University, Chico, where he plans to pursue a degree in physical therapy. Heath grew up in Red Bluff and Los Molinos, California. His ancestors are Heath E. Moon, Bernice Larson, and great grandma Louise Thorton. He plans to graduate from Chico State University in 2028-29, with a license in physical therapy. In his free time he likes to do powerlifting at North State Barbell Club. His advice: "Follow your dreams and work hard."
Josie Scaglione
Josie Scaglione, daughter of Matt and Kylie Scaglione, graduated from Cascade Christian High School in Medford, Oregon, in 2025. She plans to attend Grand Canyon University where hopes to earn a bachelor's degree in exercise science. Josie grew up in Eagle Point, Oregon. Her ancestors are Kylie Scaglione, Nina Buckmaster, Helen Reiling, Herbert Payne, Sarah Channon, Cha-Met. In high school, she participated in soccer, cross country, swimming, softball and track.
Top honor for Nation's parade float The Nation received Best in Show honors at the Crescent City Fourth of July Parade! Staff with our various departments created a wonderful cultural-based float. Coordination also took place with THPO for the regalia that was showcased on the float. The Nation offers a huge "Shu' shaa nin-la!" to all the volunteers and Tribal Citizens who showed up on parade day to help out.
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Sign up for the Art Show Tribal Citizens 8 years and older who have created native baskets, hair ties, necklaces and dresses, as well as paintings, drawings, sculptures and other forms of art, are encouraged to sign up for the Sept. 6 Dee-ni' Day Xvsh tr'vlh-sri (Art Show). "If you have created any form of art – at home, at school or as part of a Tribal workshop – we'd like to see it during the annual Dee-ni' Day Art Show!" said coordinator Jadelin Castellaw. Participants must fill out an application and entries are accepted on the day of the event from 8 to 9 a.m. The show is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. with the winners announced at 3:30 p.m. Find the application online at www. tolowa.gov/329/DEE-NI-DAY There are four categories: adult traditional, adult contemporary, and youth traditional and youth contemporary. Adults are those 18 years of age and older. Youth are those 8-17 years of age. Cash prizes for 1st-3rd place winners in the adult traditional and contemporary categories are $150, $100, $75. The cash prizes for 1st3rd place winners in the youth traditional and contemporary categories are $80, $60, $40. For more information about eligibility contact Jadelin Castellaw at 707-4879255 ext. 1228 or jadelin. castellaw@tolowa.gov.
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Winners of the 2025 Chis-chu hunting tags The winners of the Nation's 2025 Chis-chu Ch'ee-taa-ghe Naa-tr'vlhxat (Roosevelt Elk, Cervus canadensis roosevelti Hunt) tags were chosen at the June 26 regular Tribal Council meeting. One tag was for a cultural hunt and one for an individual hunt. The winner of the cultural hunting permit is Dennis Melton, with the alternate Jonathan Wilber. The winner of the individual hunting permit is Johnathan Kahoalii with the alternate: Noah Ferrer. Tolowa Dee-ni' have relied on chis-chu as a cultural resource since time immemorial. It provides sustenance and utilitarian materials that are used for tools and ceremonies. In 2018, the Nation adopted protocols in the Harvest Title that provide for sound management of wildlife that are based on traditional law passed down orally over countless generations.
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Attention Tolowa Elders NEW UNITS COMING IN EARLY 2026
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NA'SR-DVTLH-NVSH-DVN Our Nation's staff is growing!
Mike Edwards
Neno Moreno
Katlyn Don Carlos
Nants'vn Jones-Scott
Community and Family Wellness, Project Specialist, Family/Victim Advocate.
Community Development, Construction Laborer.
Tribal Employment Rights Office, Summer Youth Employee Program Supervisor.
Community Development, Construction Laborer
Wade Owen
Zeke Guana
Avery Clarkson
Tim Sanderson
Tribal Employment Rights Office, Youth Conservation Corps crew lead.
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Community Development, Construction Laborer.
Tribal Employment Rights Office, Youth Conservation Corps Liaison Lead.
Public Safety Department, Director of Public Safety.
Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation Office
• Administrative Assistant I (CFW) – Full Time • Controller (Fiscal) Full Time • Construction Laborer (Community Development) – Temporary/Full Time • Cook (Education) Full Time • Head Start Manager (Education) Full Time • Head Start Teacher (Education) Full Time • Health & Disabilities Coordinator (Education) Full Time • HDAP Technician 1 (CFW) Full Time • Janitor (Education) Full Time • Classroom Aide (Education) – Full Time • Teacher Assistant - (Education) Full Time • Tribal Resources Field Technician (Natural Resources) – Full Time • Tribal Resources Specialist (Natural Resources) Full Time
Lucky 7 Casino
• Barista– Part Time • Bartender -Part Time • Custodian/Graveyard – Part Time • Fuel Mart Cashier – 2 Full Time • Hotel Front Desk Supervisor – Full Time • Line Cook – Part Time • Marketing Specialist – 1 Full Time/1 Part Time • Shift Manager - Full Time
Xaa-wan'-k'wvt Village & Resort • Guest Services Coordinator – Part Time • Maintenance – Full Time • Security Officer – On Call
Please submit a completed application with your resume to the Human Resources Department. Job descriptions and applications are available at www.tolowa.gov/jobs.
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Open seats on Gaming Commission Tribal and non-Tribal citizens are encouraged to apply for the Nation’s Tribal Gaming Commission that oversees all Class II and Class III gaming activities on the Nation’s Indian lands in accordance with the gaming code. The three commissioner positions, appointed by the Tribal Council, consist of a chairperson, vice-chairperson and an associate commissioner. The commission will generally meet formally at least once a month. Candidates shall be at least 25 years of age and a U.S. citizen. Preference will be given to enrolled Tribal Citizens. Candidates shall be knowledgeable in areas of finance, accounting, management, legal, business, governmental regulation, Tribal policy, law, public administration, gaming operations, management and regulation. Please note: No gaming commissioner candidates may be employed in the management of the Nation’s Gaming Facility or be an elected official of the Nation, nor be employed in the Gaming Operating, be a gaming contractor, or be directly related to or sharing a residence with any of those mention above. Applications can be found on the website or send an email to recording.secretary@tolowa.com.
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PUBLIC NOTICE
COUNCIL MOTIONS Motions for June 12, 2025 WEE-NAA-TR'AA-'AA-DVN NUYNII~-'A~ (APPROVE AGENDA): M/S/C (Thompson/Wait) 5-0-1 Motion to approve agenda with the addition of a Letter of Intent (LOI) to the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) for the 105(l) lease program under Community Development & Planning. 'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman WAA-'AA-DVN NUY-NII~-'A~ (CONSENT AGENDA): M/S/C (Thompson/Sullivan) 5-01 Motion to adopt the consent agenda including: Agenda 2025-421: Political Contribution – Huffman; Agenda 2025-447: Contract CT-2551-1448 w/ Northridge Electric; Agenda 2025448: Contract CT-2551-1552 w/ LKML Plumbing; Agenda 2025449: Contract CT-2551-1550 w/ Franks Heating & Refrigeration; Agenda 2025-450: Contract CT2551-1551 w/ Red Sky Roofing; Agenda 2025-369: L7E Master Agreement - Sega Sammy Slots; Agenda 2025-426: Tribal Collection Loan Request #42; Agenda 2025-428: Regular meeting minutes May 22, 2025; Agenda 2025-309: National Provider Identification (NPI); Agenda 2025-399: Support letter PRC funds for CA Tribes. 'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
NVN-NVST-'AA~-TA (NATURAL RESOURCES): M/S/C (O'Connell/Steinruck) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Letter of Support (LOS) for the Tribal Wildlife Grant Titled "Restoring Chis-chu (Roosevelt Elk) Habitat and Connectivity in the Upper Smith River. 'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman NA'-LEE-DVN (LUCKY 7 ENTERPRISE): M/S/C (Sullivan/Wait) 5-0-1 Motion to approve with the correction of spelling on the title, Resolution 2025-16 approval of Gaming Arts Master Agreement – Agreement # M0255-TM with a Limited Waiver of Sovereign Immunity. 'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman NUU-DA'-YE'-DVN (COMMUNITY AND FAMILY WELLNESS): M/S/C (Wait/Steinruck) 5-0-1 Motion to approve the Tribal Dependency Representation (TDR) Program Letter of Interest (LOI) for the Fiscal Year (FY) 25/26. 'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman M/S/C (Wait/Sullivan) 5-0-1 Motion to approve the work plan and agreement with the National Tribal Child Welfare Center for Innovations and Advancement. 'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (O'Connell/Wait) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT2430-1358 Mod #1 with Native Wellness Institute (NWI) adding an additional $14,500 and not to exceed $80k. 'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman YUU-NVLH-TS'IT-DVN (EDUCATION): M/S/C (O'Connell/Steinruck) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT2565-1554 with Class V Company in an amount not to exceed $45k. 'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman XAA-'VTLH-SRII-DVN (COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & PLANNING): M/S/C (Sullivan/Wait) 6-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT2511-1436 Mod #1 with Terrain Landscaping and Architecture adding an additional $5,600 and not to exceed $9,160. 'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, Giovannetti; O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman M/S/C (Thompson/Sullivan) 5-0-1 Motion to approve chairpersons signature on a Letter of Intent (LOI) for the 105(l) lease application to the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). 'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman LHEE-WII-DVN (JUSTICE): M/S/C (Wait/Thompson) 5-0-1
Motion to approve Contract CT2580-1557 with McHugh Koepke Padron (MPK) Government Relations in an amount not to exceed $30k. 'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman MVSH-XE NAA-DVTLHNVSH-NE (ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES): M/S/C (O'Connell/Sullivan) 5-01 Motion to approve Resolution 2025-14 Tribal Membership nine (9) individuals referenced in the enrollment report as citizens of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation. 'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman M/S/C (O'Connell/Wait) 5-0-1 Motion to approve with edits Resolution 2025-15 Conditional Tribal Membership for two (2) individuals referenced in the enrollment report. 'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman MII~-XVSH-XAY CH'EE-NVK (ADMINISTRATION): M/S/C (Steinruck/Thompson) 4-02 Motion to approve Resolution 2025-17 appointment of Amanda O'Connell as the alternate, Tribal Delegate for United Indian Health Services (UIHS) Board of Directors. 'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman; O'Connell
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MAA-XUSLH-GHALH Jennifer Adolph Tamra Alvord Justin Arlandson Jalea Aubrey Robert Aubrey Mary Ault Melinda Baines Gerald Balcom Callysta Balcom Kira Balcom Christopher Barr Kaylee Bartow Sawyer Bartow Leo Bartow Wren Baty Avondre Bell Brandon Bentley Haley Blaise Ernest Boardman Tayshu Bommelyn San-T'As Bommelyn Alea Bravo Drea Bravo Garcia Dawn Brown Eric Brundin Isabel Brundin Kara Brundin-Miller Zane Brunner Monacco Bruschi Madison Buchanan Ian Burton Cali Burton Noah Calvery Angelo Campos-Bartow Rae-Lynn Canaday Debi Cardozo Christina Carlile Lannan Carns
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Aden Carpenter Jody Carr Trevor Carter Jadelin Castellaw Clint Chapman Michael Chisman Amara Clayton Jimmie Coenen Madison Coenen Zoey Cornelis Raymond Criteser William Dillard Katie Domas Tiffany Early Adelia Engelking Dustin Evanow Jazlynn Everts Adelaide Ficcadenti Landon Finigan Kevin Fisher Danyel Foster Liberty Fouts Mckenzie Fulton Angel Garcia Rip Gardner Asher Giovannetti Trezdon Gleaton Taviuz Gleaton Amanda Gochanour Leslie Gravatt Kayla Haney Rhonda Harris Kaleigh Haynes Maggie Haynes William Hempel Cherish Hernandez Gerine Hinshaw Melinda Hinshaw Douglas Hodges Wyatt Hooper Deanna Howard
Lukeus Hurd Wynona Idica Zane Irvine Rowan Israel Kara James Jet James Ellie Janeiro Asher Jeli Melissia Johnson Sally Jones Malia Kahoalii Marcus Kendrix Summer Kessler Nicholas Kirby Devin Kirby Vivian Kirby Addison La Fazio Mitchel Larson Ryland Leavelle Makinsey Lemley Kevin Lemmon Victoria Lewis Savannah Lewis Daniel Livingston Dewayne Lopez Logan Lopez Siobhan Lopez Sey-Gup Lopez Jennavecia Lopez S-We-Le Lopez Declan Lopez Mariana Lopez Lacey Lopez-Martinez Henry Luerra Joell Marini Christine Marini Lucas Martinez Hayden Mattingly Kyle McCann Waylon McCann Brandy McNamer
Adilene Meza Lanelle Moorehead Robert Moorehead Caleb Narvaez Jacob Narvaez Justin Netzel Wyatt Netzel Ashley Newton Jill Norwood Whitney Olds John Olds Wade Owen Layton Owen Paisley Owen Donald Payne Rachel Payne-Smith Dean Perry Jack Petrie Jimmy Phillips Robert Phillips Kelly Phillips Jesse Pittman Mary Pittman Jason Pittman James Pittman Jazmine Pittman Joshua Porter Channing Porter Shelly Pulsifer Tee-Me' Reed Kimberly Ricetti Jesse Richards Jon Richards Allen Richards Stormi Richards James Richards Randall Richards Benjamin Richards Marissa Rogers Scarlet Rose Sierra Rule
Golden Rule Cassandra Russell Alexis Rutter Samantha Sampels Preslyn Sampels Nichelle Schrag Issabelle Schriver Dale Sesher Michael Sesher Rebecca Sesher-Lee Laurie Simunich Maxwell Smith Vincent Smith Ivy Sopiwnik Delanie Starkey Marek Stifel Adrienne Stone Freyja Teurn Emerald Deja Travis Zane Walker Deziree Walker Bodhi Weideman Derek Wells Taylor Wescovich Darcy Wetzel Cali Wieland Nichole Wilburn Ivory Willburn Jazmin Wiseman
ELDER NUTRITION MENU & COMMITTEE MEETINGS Doors to nutrition site open at 11:30 a.m. Reserve lunch by 10 a.m. 707-825-3467, option #3
August 2025 MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
Suggested donations: Elders 55-plus $2 (depending on income) Under 55 $7 Menu subject to change without notice
THURSDAY
1 Veggie kielbasa
Interested in serving on a Tribal board, commission or committee? Seats are open on the Election Board, Enrollment Committee, Housing Committee, and the Tribal Gaming Commission. Fill out an application and send it to recording.secretary@tolowa.gov or call 707-487-9255.
4 Pasta salad Education Committee 5:30 p.m. House of Howonquet, Nii~-li~ Room 1st Monday of month
11 Veggie soup & half
egg salad sandwich
18 Chili relleno bake
5 White beans w/ham Language Committee 5 p.m. House of Howonquet, Nii~-li~ Room 1st Tuesday of month
12 Chicken pasta salad
19 Chicken & veggies with rice
Natural Resources and Harvesting Committee 5 - 7 p.m. House of Howonquet, Nii~-li~ Room 3rd Tuesday of month
25 Rigatoni & spinach Enrollment Committee 12:30 p.m. TDN Headquarters building 4th Monday of month
26 Tuna salad TERO Commission 5:30 p.m. TDN Headquarters building 4th Tuesday of month
6 Sack lunch
scramble
7 Sweet & sour pork
8 Sausage & egg
14 Hot dog w/bun
15 Ham, egg &
21 Chicken taco salad
22 Bacon & veggie
Indian Child Welfare Advisory Board 12 p.m. House of Howonquet, Nii~-li~ Room 1st Wednesday of month
13 Chili Free blood pressure and glucose screening 10-11 a.m. Nation Headquarters 12801 Mouth of Smith River Rd. 2nd Wednesday of month
20 Clam chowder Housing Committee 5:30 p.m. House of Howonquet, Nii~-li~ Room 3rd Wednesday of month
27 Hamburger soup
FRIDAY
English muffin
cheese burrito
scramble
Fresh Food Giveaway Drive Through 12-3 p.m. 16450 Oceanview Dr.
28 Chicken fiesta
29 Biscuits & gravy
Culture Committee 5 p.m. House of Howonquet, Nii~-li~ Room 4th Wednesday of month
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Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation 12801 Mouth of Smith River Rd. Smith River, CA 95567
LAA-NII-SRVT-NAA-TAA-NUM-NII~-MA~S (August)
2025 TRIBAL NEWSLETTER